Steven J. Davis
Professor of Earth System Science, University of California, Irvine: [Ph.D. in Geological and Environmental Sciences from Stanford University]. Prof. Davis works to understand and find ways to meet the challenge of satisfying global demand for energy, food, and goods without emitting carbon dioxide to the atmosphere.
He is interested in studies of coupled human and natural systems and sustainable systems analysis, including: energy technology and policy; of pollution and resources embodied in international trade; of socio-economic inertia and “lock-in” of environmental problems; and of the complex interactions of energy systems, agriculture, climate change, and global ecology.
Education
- 2008 Ph.D. Geological and Environmental Sciences, Stanford University
- 2001 J.D. Virginia School of Law, University of Virginia
- 1998 B.A. Political Science and Philosophy, University of Florida, Phi Beta Kappa
Academic Experience
University of California, Irvine: Department of Earth System Science
Associate Professor 2016-present
Assistant Professor 2012-2016
Chinese Academy of Sciences: Institute of Applied Ecology
Young International Distinguished Professor 2015-2016
Tsinghua University: Center for Earth System Science
Visiting Professor Summer 2015
Carnegie Institution for Science: Department of Global Ecology
Senior Research Associate 2010-2012
Postdoctoral Researcher 2008-2010
University of Washington: Joint Institute for the Study of the Atmosphere and Ocean
Visiting Scholar 2010-2012
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution: Marine Policy Center
Guest Investigator 2009-2010
Stanford University: Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences
Research Assistant 2004-2008
Professional Experience
- Watershed: Head of Climate Science; 2022-present
- Near Zero: Co-Founder and Chief Scientist; 2009-Present
- The Climate Conservancy: Co-Founder and Executive Director; 2006-2010
- Gray, Cary, Ware & Freidenrich, LLP (now DLA Piper), Corporate and Securities Group: Associate Attorney; 2002-2004
Professional Affiliations and Service
- State Bar of California
- American Geophysical Union
- American Association for the Advancement of Science
- Geological Society of America
- Editorial Board, Environmental Research Letters
- Review Editor, Frontiers in Energy Systems and Policy
- Global Carbon Project
- National Climate Assessment
Biogeochemical cycles; energy technology and policy; emissions and energy embodied in international trade; life cycle assessment; interactions of agriculture and climate; human drivers of greenhouse gas emissions; and socio-economic inertia of climate change. Expert in the interactions of energy, agriculture, water, climate and international trade.
